Jeff McDonald: Mahinmi called up, Tolliver sent down

The Spurs continued to burn up Interstate-35 between San Antonio and Austin on Tuesday, recalling former first-round draft pick Ian Mahinmi from the Toros, their affiliate in the NBA’s Developmental League.

To make roster room in San Antonio, the Spurs have also assigned rookie Anthony Tolliver to Austin.

Mahinmi, the team’s first-round pick in 2005, was initially sent to Austin on Nov. 14 to recover from a sprained ankle suffered before the start of training camp. The 6-foot-11 center/forward played in one game for the Toros, scoring four points in 20 minutes.

Tolliver, an undrafted free agent who made the Spurs roster out of training camp, averaged 3.5 points in 11 appearances with the Spurs. The Spurs will retain Tolliver’s rights while he is in Austin.

UPDATE: For what it’s worth, Gregg Popovich said before tonight’s game that he has “no plans” to play Mahinmi any time soon. He is back in San Antonio so the team can monitor his rehab, and might be returning to Austin shortly.

One Response

Note to Mahinmi: Even if you develop into a superstar by next year, you better accept any contract extension terms with a smile for the way the Spurs have babied you all these years waiting for you to be ready to produce. Yes, you’re not to blame for all the injuries, but you’d better appreciate your employer when it’s your turn to be considerate.